tell ___ ‘hi’ from me

ABOUT THE EXHIBIT

tell ___ ‘hi’ from me showcases the work of 27 self-taught, neurodivergent artists who live and create in Oregon and are members of the Portland-based Progressive Art Studio, North Pole Studio. North Pole Studio is embedded in a nationwide movement of autonomous and unique Progressive Art Studios who provide accessible studio space for disabled, neurodivergent and autistic artists. Emerging in response to Oregon's history of institutionalization and ongoing ableist systems, and standing in direct opposition to the current political climate, North Pole Studio pursues a paradigm shift. A shift that values self-determination above all else. A shift that recognizes diversity as human brilliance, and invites us to expand how we think about storytelling and what it means to live in true community with one another. 

This diverse collection of contemporary 2D and 3D works reflects honest creative expression and raw innovation. It honors the vitality of lifelong creative practice and reimagines conventions in artmaking. The exhibit will travel across the region throughout 2025 and 2026, amplifying the voices of artists whose perspectives have long been marginalized. It invites the viewer to deepen their understanding of the Progressive Art Studio movement and artists working within it, both regionally and nationally. tell ___ ‘hi’ from me offers a warm greeting and a long overdue introduction. It speaks to presence, persistence, and belonging: ‘we’ve always been here, won’t you get to know us?’ … ‘it’s time you get to know us’.

FEATURED ARTISTS

Aaron Cunningham
Adam Richards 
Adolph Bastendorff
Aisha Abioto 
Annie Rose Macer
Austin Brague
Christopher Anders
Connor Barnum
Dan Tran
Davis Wohlford 
Deanna Weisenhaus 
Doug Wing 
Eva Adnarel
Iris Tervo
James Enos
John Mosser 
Joni Smith
Kristy Yawman
Manta Jay
Max LaZebnik
Nathan Ueno 
Ocean Stever 
Sally Inman 
Scott Tullock
Tyla Parsons 
Zina Allen 
TJ Lightburn